| ICE Arrests 118 Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Burglars, Domestic Abusers, and Serial Drunk Drivers in California Surge Operation | | 01/05/2026 | | | | | | ICE Arrests 118 Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Burglars, Domestic Abusers, and Serial Drunk Drivers in California Surge Operation Governor Newsom and his fellow sanctuary politicians protect criminal illegal aliens and put the safety of American families at risk WASHINGTON — ICE Los Angeles arrested 118 illegal aliens in California's San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties during a six-day surge operation between December 26 and December 31, including pedophiles, registered sex offenders, burglars, domestic abusers, and serial drunk drivers. "ICE ended 2025 with a surge operation in California targeting the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. 118 illegal aliens were arrested including pedophiles, registered sex offenders, burglars, domestic abusers, and serial drunk drivers," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Criminal illegal aliens flock to California because they know Governor Newsom and his fellow sanctuary politicians will allow them to terrorize innocent American families. In 2026, our law enforcement will continue to do what Gavin Newsom refused to do: make California safe again." Some of the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens arrested during the surge operation are below: Juan Perez Tello, 42, of Mexico. Perez was convicted of lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14 and is a registered sex offender. Rogelio Sanchez Hidalgo, 41, of Mexico. Sanchez was convicted of lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14 and illegal reentry. He is also a registered sex offender. Gabino Najera-Romano, 39, of Mexico. Najera-Romano was convicted of battery. Victor Alfonso Graciano-Quiterio, 40, of Mexico. Graciano-Quiterio was convicted of battery, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, using force or threat against a witness to a crime, disorderly conduct, and violating court orders to prevent domestic violence. Filemon Diego-Francisco, 38, was convicted of assault with a deadly weapon: not a firearm and threaten crime with intent to terrorize. Raymundo Bojorges Mendez, 47, of Mexico. Bojorges has four DUI convictions, one of which was DUI causing bodily injury, and has been convicted of driving on a suspended license. Misael Amador Cruz, 41, of Mexico. Amador was convicted of DUI, hit-and-run, false imprisonment and driving without a license. Marcelino Martinez-Francisco, 36, of Mexico. Martinez-Francisco was convicted of causing injury to a child, hit-and-run causing property damage, and two DUIs. He also has pending charges for an additional DUI and violating his probation. Julio Cesar Tadeo Lopez, 32, of Mexico. Tadeo was convicted of DUI causing great bodily injury, hit-and-run causing property damage, and a separate DUI. Anatolio Clavijo-Urbano, 46, of Mexico. Clavijo-Urbano was convicted of second-degree burglary. Jose Miguel Pineda-Garcia, 44, of Mexico. Pineda-Garcia was convicted of alien smuggling. | | | | | | ICE Lodges Detainers for Criminal Illegal Aliens Arrested for Trafficking More Than 300 Pounds of Cocaine Hidden in a Semi-Truck in Indiana | | 01/05/2026 | | | | | | ICE Lodges Detainers for Criminal Illegal Aliens Arrested for Trafficking More Than 300 Pounds of Cocaine Hidden in a Semi-Truck in Indiana Two criminal illegal aliens accused of trafficking cocaine were issued Commercial Drivers Licenses by Gavin Newsom's California WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged arrest detainers for two criminal illegal aliens from India arrested for smuggling more than 300 pounds of cocaine inside a semi-truck in Putnam County, Indiana. With a lethal dose of cocaine being as little as 1.2 grams, that is enough to kill more than 113,000 Americans. On January 4, 2026, ICE lodged detainers for Gurpreet Singh, a 25-year-old male and criminal illegal alien from India, and Jasveer Singh, a 30-year-old male and criminal illegal alien from India, following their arrest by local authorities in Putnam County, Indiana for narcotics trafficking. Gurpreet Singh Jasveer Singh Law enforcement located 309 pounds of cocaine concealed in the sleeper berth of the semi-truck they were operating during a routine truck inspection. Both individuals were given Commercial Drivers Licenses issued by the state of California. Law enforcement located 309 pounds of cocaine concealed in the sleeper berth of the semi-truck the two aliens were operating "Thanks to Gavin Newsom's reckless policies, these two criminal illegal aliens were granted commercial drivers licenses by the state of California and were arrested for trafficking a whopping 300 pounds of cocaine inside a semi-truck," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Gavin Newsom and his fellow sanctuary politicians even refused to honor an arrest detainer on one of these criminal illegal aliens in December. Sanctuary policies put American lives at risk. ICE law enforcement lodged arrest detainers to ensure these drug traffickers are not allowed back into American communities." Gurpreet Singh illegally entered the U.S. on March 11, 2023 near Lukeville, Arizona and was released into the country under the Biden administration. Gurpreet Singh freely admitted to law enforcement that he was a citizen of India and illegally in the U.S. Jasveer Singh illegally entered the U.S. on March 21, 2017 near Otay Mesa, California. He was arrested on December 5, 2025 for receiving stolen property in San Bernardino, California. ICE lodged an arrest detainer. Due to Governor Newsom's sanctuary polices, the detainer was not honored, and this criminal illegal alien was released back into American communities. | | | | | | New Year, Same Mission: ICE Arrests More Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Murderers, Gang Members, and Rapists | | 01/05/2026 | | | | | | New Year, Same Mission: ICE Arrests More Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Murderers, Gang Members, and Rapists Thanks to a historic 120% increase in manpower, ICE is unleashed to arrest the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American communities WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) launches into the new year with more arrests of the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from around the country including those convicted of homicide, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, and rape. "The first year of the Trump Administration marked record-breaking progress in removing criminal illegal aliens, and DHS will be doubling down on those accomplishments in 2026 with our more than 12,000 new officers and agents," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Over the weekend, ICE arrested murderers, stalkers, rapists, and gang members. President Trump and Secretary Noem unleashed ICE to get criminal illegal aliens off our streets and out of our country." Worst of the worst arrests from over the weekend include: Jose Cano-Cruz, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for homicide by vessel and aggravated stalking in Muscogee County, Georgia. Waheed Allah Mohammad, a criminal illegal alien from Afghanistan convicted for attempted murder and first-degree assault - intent to cause serious injury with a weapon in Monroe County, New York. Carlos Danilo Barrera, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador and member of the Florencia 13 gang, convicted for second-degree murder in Los Angeles, California. Ruben Pulido-Cortes, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for rape in Queens, New York. Leonel Rodriguez-Garcia, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for kidnapping in Kern County, California. Uriel Segovia-Leon, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for battery resulting in serious bodily injury in Lake County, Indiana. Duane Alando Spence, a criminal illegal alien from Jamaica, convicted for aggravated battery-great bodily harm in Miami, Florida. Patricio Hernandez-Gomez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for first-degree unlawful imprisonment in Perry County, Kentucky. Yessenia Monserrat Monje-Orozco, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for possession of prohibited ammo, vehicle theft, and possession of a controlled substance in San Luis Obispo, California. Thinh Troung Nguyen, a criminal illegal alien from Vietnam, convicted for armed robbery in Lexington, Oklahoma. Esteban Reyes-Cortes, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for battery and disorderly conduct in Tallahassee, Florida, and entering an automobile with intent to commit theft in Decatur, Georgia. Jose Antonio Poblete-Velasquez, a criminal illegal alien from Chile, convicted for burglary in Ventura, California. Luis Alberto Medel-Miranda, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for driving while impaired-aggravated in Rockingham County, North Carolina. Kevin Ruiz-Gonzalez, a criminal illegal alien from Honduras, convicted for criminal possession of a weapon in Bronx, New York. Harvy Gomez-Alaniz, a criminal illegal alien from Nicaragua, convicted for evading arrest detention in San Antonio, Texas. Americans can see more worst of the worst arrested in their communities on our webpage wow.dhs.gov. | | | | | | ICE Arrests Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Monster with 13 Convictions for Indecency with a Child | | 01/06/2026 | | | | | | ICE Arrests Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Monster with 13 Convictions for Indecency with a Child Thanks to a historic 120% increase in manpower, ICE is unleashed to arrest the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American communities WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) entered 2026 with the hiring of more than 12,000 officers to jumpstart efforts to remove the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. Yesterday's arrests include drug traffickers, violent assailants, and one monster with 13 convictions of indecency with a child. "President Trump and Secretary Noem built a larger, stronger ICE for one reason: to make America safe again. Every day our officers put their lives on the line to arrest the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American neighborhoods," said a DHS Spokesperson. "One of yesterday's arrests includes a monster with 13 convictions for indecency with a child. These types of sickos have no right to be in our country and prey on innocent children. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, this pedophile will soon be OUT of our country." ICE arrests yesterday from across the country include: Raul Gonzalez-Lopez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted for 13 counts of indecency with a child in Guadalupe County, Texas. Jose Ignacio Carchi-Saquipulla, a criminal illegal alien from Ecuador convicted for assault in Queens, New York. Juan Pineda-Betancourth, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of conspiracy to distribute crystal meth in Little Rock, Arkansas. Duniesky Eugenio Delgado-Gazo, a criminal illegal alien from Cuba convicted for aggravated assault in Pensacola, Florida. Jose Mendoza, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador convicted for criminal sexual act in Riverhead, New York. Americans can see more worst of the worst arrested in their communities on our webpage wow.dhs.gov. | | | | | | DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Hits the Streets with ICE Agents on Major Minneapolis Enforcement Operation to Arrest Criminal Illegal Alien Murderer and Sexual Predator Released Into the Country by the Biden Administration | | 01/06/2026 | | | | | | DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Hits the Streets with ICE Agents on Major Minneapolis Enforcement Operation to Arrest Criminal Illegal Alien Murderer and Sexual Predator Released Into the Country by the Biden Administration WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem participated in an immigration enforcement operation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers that resulted in the arrest of Tomas Espin Tapia, a fugitive wanted for murder in Ecuador and sexual predator. Tomas Espin Tapia, a criminal illegal alien from Ecuador, illegally entered the United States on October 23, 2022, and was RELEASED into the country by the Biden administration. His criminal history includes an active warrant in Ecuador for murder and an active warrant for sexual assault in Connecticut. He also has previous convictions in Ecuador for robbery and extortion. He was issued a final order of removal by an Immigration Judge on February 28, 2025 after he failed to show up for his immigration hearing. Tomas Espin Tapia "Under President Trump, we will expose and deliver accountability for the rampant fraud and criminality happening in Minnesota. You won't steal from Americans or break our laws and get away with it," said Secretary Noem. "Another murderer and sexual predator off of Minneapolis's streets thanks to ICE. We just arrested this criminal illegal alien from Ecuador who has an active warrant for murder in Ecuador and a warrant for sexual assault in Connecticut. He was convicted of robbery and extortion in Ecuador." DHS has surged law enforcement and has already made more than 1,000 arrests of murderers, rapists, pedophiles, and gang members in Minnesota. Just yesterday more than 150 illegal aliens were arrested in Minneapolis. Some of the worst of the worst arrested recently include: Mong Cheng, a criminal illegal alien from Laos, convicted of homicide, vehicle theft, possession of stolen property, and assault, and with a previous arrest for arson. Kao Yang, a criminal illegal alien from Laos, convicted of sexual assault, lewd acts with a minor, and procuring a prostitute. Blayon Lawrence Yuoh, a criminal illegal alien from Liberia, convicted of rape, robbery, sexual assault, larceny, obstructing police, assault, robbery, and possession of stolen property. Tong Xiong, a criminal illegal alien from Laos, convicted of lewd or lascivious acts with a minor, sexual assault, kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, robbery, and probation violation. Julio Desiderio Naula-Jara, a criminal illegal alien from Ecuador, convicted of sexual assault, domestic violence, assault, driving under the influence, and probation violation. Hoang Xuan Nguyen, a criminal alien from Vietnam convicted of rape, second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a victim under 13, and driving under the influence of liquor. Jozias Natanael Carmona-Pena, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador, charged with lewd acts with a minor. Venustiano Cardoso, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of cocaine. Carmen Mireya Alarcon Rivera, a criminal illegal alien from Ecuador convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine on board a vessel and international conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Thai Vang, a criminal illegal alien from Laos convicted of fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, felony larceny, aggravated felony robbery, driving under the influence of liquor, and probation violation. | | | | | | ICE Arrests Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Violent Assailants, and Human Traffickers | | 01/07/2026 | | | | | | ICE Arrests Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Violent Assailants, and Human Traffickers Thanks to a historic 120% increase in manpower, ICE is unleashed to arrest the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American communities WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced the arrest of more worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from across the country including those convicted of sexual assault of a child, assault, and human trafficking. "Another day, another round of pedophiles, violent thugs, and human traffickers removed from American communities," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, ICE is targeting and removing the WORST OF THE WORST criminal illegal aliens terrorizing American families. 70% of ICE arrests are of criminal illegal aliens with charges or convictions in the United States. In 2026, with a 120% increase in manpower, ICE is unleashed to arrest even more criminal illegal aliens and get them OUT of our country." Yesterday's arrests include: Hiram Urgell-Pardo, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of sexual assault of a child in Starr County, Texas. Randolfo Agusto Diaz-Cabrera, a criminal illegal alien from Dominican Republic convicted of course of second-degree sexual conduct against a child in Kings County, New York. Brett Archer, a criminal illegal alien from Barbados convicted of assault in Brooklyn, New York. David Llama-Lopez, a criminal illegal alien from Cuba convicted of human trafficking in Miami, Florida. Jimena Vaglio-Navarrete, a criminal illegal alien from Costa Rica convicted of second-degree burglary in Iredell County, North Carolina. Americans can see more worst of the worst arrested in their communities on our webpage wow.dhs.gov. | | | | | | DHS Touts Success of Operation Buckeye in Arresting More Than 280 Illegal Aliens Including Those Convicted of Assault, Criminal Firearm Possession, and Drug Trafficking | | 01/08/2026 | | | | | | DHS Touts Success of Operation Buckeye in Arresting More Than 280 Illegal Aliens Including Those Convicted of Assault, Criminal Firearm Possession, and Drug Trafficking While Americans were attending Christmas parties and shopping for gifts for their loved ones, ICE law enforcement was hard at work arresting the worst of the worst WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security highlighted the success of Operation Buckeye, a targeted enforcement operation conducted throughout the state of Ohio during December 16-21, 2025. Total arrests reached more than 280 illegal aliens from across the Buckeye state, including those convicted of aggravated assault against a police officer, robbery, criminal possession of a firearm, and drug trafficking. "The American people can be so proud of their ICE law enforcement for their hard work arresting the worst of the worst even during the holiday season," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Operation Buckeye resulted in the arrest of more than 280 illegal aliens, including criminals convicted of assaulting a police officer, criminal firearm possession, and drug trafficking. Thanks to our law enforcement, Ohio neighborhoods are safer with these criminals behind bars where they belong." Some worst of the worst arrested during Operation Buckeye include: Emanuel Guijosa-Nonato, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of aggravated assault against a police officer, disorderly conduct, driving under the influence of liquor, and illegal re-entry. Andres Blanco Hernandez, a criminal illegal alien arrested for assault and domestic violence. Wilmar Edgardo Lozano-Alcantara, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador convicted of drug possession, robbery, and trespassing. Erick Jose Ramos-Boscan, a criminal illegal alien from Venezuela convicted of criminal possession of a firearm. Edilmiro Pedraza Quinones, a criminal illegal alien convicted of drug possession, shoplifting and contempt of court. Marco Antonio Clemente Picazo, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of driving under the influence of liquor and drug possession. Melvin Alejandro Rodriguez Rodriguez, a criminal illegal alien from Venezuela previously arrested for assault. Fernandez Flores, a criminal illegal alien from Honduras convicted of making a false police report and arrested for larceny and obstructing police. | | | | | | ICE Arrests Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Rapists, and Murderers | | 01/08/2026 | | | | | | ICE Arrests Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Rapists, and Murderers ICE law enforcement is facing a 1,300% increase in assaults against them and an 8,000% increase in death threats WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced the arrest of more worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from across the country, including those convicted of sexual assault of a child, rape, and aggravated manslaughter. "Despite a more than 1,300% increase in assaults against our law enforcement and an 8,000% increase in death threats, our law enforcement continues to put their lives on the line to arrest the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens," said a DHS Spokesperson. "Yesterday's arrests included pedophiles, rapists, and murderers. We are thankful for our law enforcement officers for all they do to make America safe again. We will not let violence stop us or slow us down from removing criminal illegal aliens from our communities." Yesterday's arrests include: Jose Jesus Agreda-Escobar, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of indecency with a child and aggravated sexual assault in Denton County, Texas. Juan Ignacio Gonzalez-Camacho, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of sexual assault of a child in San Angelo, Texas. Jose Lopez-Rodriguez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of attempted first degree sexual offense with child in Wake County, North Carolina. Noel Flores-Flores, a criminal illegal alien from Honduras, convicted of rape in Riverhead, New York. Juan Corona, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of distributing a controlled dangerous substance within 1,000 feet of a school, aggravated manslaughter, and aggravated assault involving serious bodily injury in Camden County, New Jersey. | | | | | | Radical Rhetoric by Sanctuary Politicians Leads to an Unprecedented 1,300% Increase in Assaults Against ICE Officers and a 3,200% Increase in Vehicular Attacks | | 01/08/2026 | | | | | | Radical Rhetoric by Sanctuary Politicians Leads to an Unprecedented 1,300% Increase in Assaults Against ICE Officers and a 3,200% Increase in Vehicular Attacks DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's message is clear: this violence and dehumanization of ICE law enforcement must end WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released new statistics on assaults against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) law enforcement who now face a more than 1,300% increase in assaults, a 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks against them, and an 8,000% increase in death threats. Sanctuary politicians have created an environment that encourages rampant assaults on law enforcement. During the first year of the Trump administration, from January 20 – December 31, 2025, DHS officials reported 275 assaults as compared to the 19 reported assaults during the same period in 2024. This is a horrific 1,347% increase in assaults against ICE officers. From January 21, 2025 – January 7, 2026, ICE law enforcement officers experienced 66 vehicular attacks against them, compared to only 2 during the same time period the previous year. This is a 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks. "This unprecedented increase in violence against law enforcement is a direct result of sanctuary politicians and the media creating an environment that demonizes our law enforcement and encourages rampant assaults against them. Dangerous criminals – whether they be illegal aliens or U.S. citizens – are assaulting law enforcement and turning their vehicles into weapons to attack law enforcement," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Still, the brave men and women of DHS will not be deterred and will continue arresting the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. Anyone who attacks law enforcement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law." Below are just a few samplings of the violent rhetoric against DHS law enforcement: - Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called for ICE to "get the f**k out of Minneapolis."
- Governor Pritzker claimed the United States is "essentially" becoming Nazi Germany as a result of ICE's heroic efforts.
- Boston Mayor Michelle Wu compared mask-wearing ICE agents to a Neo-Nazi group.
This rhetoric is contributing to a more than 1,300% increase in assaults against DHS law enforcement. A non-exhaustive list of physical assaults include: A non-exhaustive list of vehicular assaults includes: DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's message is clear: you will not stop or slow us down. ICE and our federal law enforcement partners will continue to enforce the law. And if you lay a hand on a law enforcement officer, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The public can report doxing and harassment against ICE officers by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or by completing ICE's online tip form. | | | | | | CCHT Chronicle: January 2026 | | 01/08/2026 | | The Monthly Newsletter of the Center for Countering Human Trafficking | |  Join the Movement: #WearBlueDay on January 11 January marks Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and CCHT invites you to join the national movement on January 11, 2026—#WearBlueDay. Blue is the international color of human trafficking awareness—so wear it, share it, and talk about it to help spread awareness of this often-overlooked and misunderstood crime. On Sunday January 11, post a photo or video on your social channels using #WearBlueDay, and let people know why you're participating. Encourage friends, family, and coworkers to join in by wearing blue, sharing resources, and posting as well. A simple act—and a simple conversation—can help break the silence and spread awareness nationwide. Visit BlueCampaign.gov today to download ready-to-use social media posts, virtual meeting backgrounds, email signature graphics, and more. Educational Webinars: Learn, Recognize, and Take Action In honor of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, CCHT is offering several educational webinars to help you recognize the signs and take action against human trafficking: Continued Presence Webinar for Law Enforcement Thursday, January 15 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM EST | REGISTER HERE Continued Presence (CP) is a temporary immigration designation provided to trafficking victims who may be potential witnesses. CP allows victims to legally stay and work in the U.S. temporarily while authorities investigate the trafficking crimes committed against them and while they pursue civil lawsuits against their traffickers under 18 U.S.C. § 1595. This webinar is specifically geared toward the law enforcement community, and will cover: - Why and how requesting Continued Presence strengthens human trafficking investigations
- How to prepare and submit a Continued Presence request
- Recent improvements to the Continued Presence program
Continued Presence Webinar for the Public Thursday, January 22 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM EST | REGISTER HERE Continued Presence (CP) is a temporary immigration designation provided to trafficking victims who may be potential witnesses. CP allows victims to legally stay and work in the U.S. temporarily while authorities investigate the trafficking crimes committed against them and while they pursue civil lawsuits against their traffickers under 18 U.S.C. § 1595. This webinar will focus on: - What Continued Presence is and who is eligible to make a request
- Whom to contact to make a Continued Presence request
- The CCHT Victim-Centered Approach
- Continued Presence applications in support of civil actions
Human Trafficking 101 English: Wednesday, January 28 | 2:30-3:30pm EST | REGISTER HERE Spanish: Thursday, January 29 | 2:30-3:30pm EST | REGISTER HERE Everyone has a role to play in combatting human trafficking. A member of CCHT's Blue Campaign team will discuss how to best recognize and report potential cases, and how you can get involved in raising awareness within your communities. Don't miss out on this opportunity to become equipped as an advocate for change, and gain essential insights into: - What human trafficking is and why it matters
- Myths and misconceptions about human trafficking
- Who trafficking affects and how traffickers operate
- Indicators of potential human trafficking situations
- Resources available to help supercharge awareness efforts in your communities
| | @DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking on LinkedIn | | | | | | | DHS Highlights Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Rapists, Pedophiles, and Drug Traffickers Arrested Yesterday in Minneapolis | | 01/08/2026 | | | | | | DHS Highlights Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Rapists, Pedophiles, and Drug Traffickers Arrested Yesterday in Minneapolis We will not let violence or rioters slow us down from fulfilling the American people's mandate to remove the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American neighborhoods WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced arrests in Minneapolis, Minnesota yesterday. Across the city, ICE officers and agents arrested criminal illegal aliens including rapists, pedophiles, and drug traffickers. "In the face of violent attacks, ICE law enforcement arrested pedophiles, rapists, and drug traffickers in Minneapolis yesterday," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Every single day our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to arrest the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American communities. We will not let rioters slow us down from making Minnesota safe again—something Governor Walz and Mayor Frey REFUSED to do." Since Operation Metro Surge began, DHS law enforcement arrested more than 1,500 illegal aliens, including murderers, pedophiles, rapists, and gang members across Minnesota. Among the worst of the worst arrested yesterday in Minneapolis include: Jose Alejandro Alvarado, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador convicted of sexual assault on a child. Abdikani Noor Ibrahim, a criminal illegal alien and registered sex offender from Somalia convicted of SEVENTEEN CRIMES including four counts of larceny, vehicle theft, receiving stolen property, forgery, domestic violence, threatening terroristic state offenses, driving under the influence of liquor, intimidation, escape from custody, and property damage. Alfonso Gregorio-Lopez, a criminal illegal alien from Guatemala convicted of attempted sexual assault. Vang Pao Lee, a criminal illegal alien from Laos convicted of attempted criminal sexual conduct with a victim under 16 years, domestic violence, receiving stolen property, contempt of court and driving under the influence of liquor. Said Abdulahi Elmi, a criminal illegal alien from Somalia convicted of possession of opium or derivatives, driving under the influence, possession of a hallucinogen, fraud, attempt to commit burglary, and larceny and charged with 20 other crimes. Enrique Rodriguez-Martinez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of altering identification on a weapon, domestic violence, flight to avoid prosecution, two counts of driving under the influence of liquor, and larceny. Joel Cuautle-Ocelotl, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of assault, resisting an officer, illegal re-entry, and driving under the influence of liquor. Brian Kenny Ardon, a criminal illegal alien convicted of assault with a dangerous weapon, drug possession, and larceny. Juan Jose Fuentes Huezo, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador convicted of domestic violence, shoplifting and disorderly conduct. Isaac Marin Ramirez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of identity theft, selling cocaine, and selling amphetamine. Bashir Ali Kulmie, a criminal illegal alien from Somalia convicted of drug trafficking and giving a peace officer a fake name. Marco Antonio Heras Angulo, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of selling methamphetamine. Juan Pablo Morales Ayala, a criminal illegal alien from Venezuela convicted of money laundering. | | | | | | Secretary Noem Announces Success in Operation Salvo in New York City Following Shooting of CBP Officer | | 01/09/2026 | | | | | | Secretary Noem Announces Success in Operation Salvo in New York City Following Shooting of CBP Officer Operation Salvo was launched in the wake of the July 19th shooting of an off-duty Supervisory Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer in New York City by criminal illegal alien gang members WASHINGTON – The United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem on Wednesday announced an update on Operation Salvo, an immigration enforcement operation launched in response to the shooting of an off-duty Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer by two criminal illegal alien gang members. "Operation Salvo is just the beginning of a broader and a much more sustained effort to go after not only transnational criminal organizations and networks, but also illegal criminal aliens throughout the country," said Secretary Noem. "The Trump Administration is using every single tool that we have to protect the American people. We are warning anyone if you think you can harm an individual, a citizen of the United States, or a law enforcement officer, we will find you and bring you to justice. If you lay a finger on one of our officers, we will catch you. We will prosecute you and you will feel the full extent of the law." Operation Salvo has already resulted in the arrests of 54 people with more to come. Those arrested are from violent transnational gangs, including members of the Trinitarios, who, in addition to the July shooting of the off-duty CBP officer, are responsible for: weapons trafficking, human smuggling, narcotics distribution, armed robberies, and previous violent attacks across New York City. Roughly 60% of those arrested in Operation Salvo have been removed from the country so far. In the July attack responsible for this operation, two criminal illegal aliens attacked an off-duty CBP officer and his girlfriend as they walked through a park. The officer bravely fought back and defended himself and his girlfriend, but not before being shot in the face and his right forearm by one of the attackers. Both criminal illegal aliens behind the attack were from the Dominican Republic, were members of the notorious Trinitarios gang, and were let into the country by President Joe Biden. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the New York Police Department worked to arrest both the gunman and his accomplice. Secretary Noem met with the officer — who wishes to remain unnamed — prior to today's press conference. Miguel Mora Nunez, the shooter, is a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic whose criminal history includes prior charges for assault, contempt, and robbery. He currently faces charges of attempted murder, assault, attempted robbery, robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, and unlawful transport of firearms. Cristhian Aybar Berroa, the driver, is a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic whose criminal history includes prior charges for reckless endangerment, grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, reckless driving, and driving without a license. He currently faces charges of robbery, assault, attempted robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, and unlawful transport of firearms. CBP New York named Operation Salvo to serve a dual purpose. First, the officer shot that night received salvation and survived that heinous attack, his life spared. In response, CBP New York crafted a plan to unleash a "salvo of justice" upon those who seek to harm our community. Operation Salvo combines the resources of the CBP, HSI, and ERO. The New York City Police Department and federal prosecutors from the Southern District of New York (SDNY), and the New York County District Attorney's Office are also valued partners in this effort. Other arrests as a result of Operation Salvo include: Francisco Fabelo, a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic, whose criminal history includes assault with intent to cause serious physical injury (2nd degree), robbery with physical injury displaying firearm (2nd degree), robbery, forcible theft armed with a deadly weapon (1st degree), criminal possession of a weapon (2nd degree), criminal possession of stolen property (5th degree), criminal trespass (2nd degree), criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell (3rd degree), criminal use of a firearm to commit a class B felony (1st degree), menacing with weapon (2nd degree), and intent to obtain transportation without paying.  | Cristian Javier, a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic, whose criminal history includes act in manner to injure a child less than 17, assault in the 3rd degree, attempted assault in the 3rd degree, criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 4th degree, criminal facilitation in the 4th degree, and criminal mischief. Vladimir de Jesus Martinez, a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic, whose criminal history includes felony grand larceny, felony assault in the 2nd degree, felony attempted assault in the 2nd degree, assault in the 3rd degree, criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation, criminal possession of a weapon, resisting arrest, menacing in the 3rd degree, and harassment in the 2nd degree. Brandol Fernandez Encarnacion, a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic, whose criminal history includes robbery (2nd degree), robbery (3rd degree), robbery cause physical injury (2nd degree), grand larceny (4th degree), and criminal sale of a controlled substance (3rd degree). Jorge Medina-Pacheco, a criminal illegal alien from the Dominican Republic, whose criminal history includes criminal possession of a weapon - 4th degree, assault with intent to cause physical injury - 3rd degree, and harassment - 2nd degree. | | | | | | On Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, DHS Thanks Our Federal Officers Who Put Their Lives on the Line to Arrest the Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Murderers, and Weapon Traffickers | | 01/09/2026 | | U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of Public Affairs
| | On Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, DHS Thanks Our Federal Officers Who Put Their Lives on the Line to Arrest the Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Pedophiles, Murderers, and Weapon Traffickers | | DHS honors our federal law enforcement officers who are facing a more than 1,300% increase in assaults, 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks, and an 8,000% increase in death threats against them WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) gives thanks to all of our officers on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Despite our officers facing a more than 1,300% increase in assaults, 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks, and an 8,000% increase in death threats against them, they continue to risk their lives to arrest the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from across the country including those convicted of lewd or lascivious acts with child under 14, murder, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. “On this Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, I want to take a moment to express how thankful I am every single day for the men and women who put on the badge and put their lives on the line to protect the American people. With more than 80,000 officers and agents, our Department is the largest law enforcement agency in the federal government. We recognize the sacrifice you and your families make to protect and serve the American people and our great country," said Secretary Kristi Noem. "President Trump and I will always stand with you. Please take some time today to thank an officer or agent today. Make them a meal, buy them a cup of coffee, or simply thank them. To every officer who puts on the badge each day: thank you. Your service is paramount to our nation’s safety." Yesterday’s arrests include:  Angelica Maria Lua-Pinon, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of lewd or lascivious acts with child under 14 in San Fernando, California.  Jorge Alberto Olivares-Lagunes, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in Hays County, Texas.  Ricardo Garcia-Villegas, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of murder in Queens, New York.  Edwin Sanchez-Montiel, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador, convicted of accessory after the fact relating to first-degree murder in Montgomery County, Maryland.  Inmar Hernandez-Carcamo, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador, convicted of firearms trafficking conspiracy in the U.S. District Court, District of Maryland. | | # # # | | | | | Secretary Noem Honors the Courage and Bravery of the Men and Women of Law Enforcement on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day | | 01/09/2026 | | U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of Public Affairs
| | Secretary Noem Honors the Courage and Bravery of the Men and Women of Law Enforcement on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day | | DHS stands with federal law enforcement today and every day WASHINGTON — Today, on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recognizes the extraordinary sacrifices and heroic action of our law enforcement officers as they serve on the front lines to remove the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from American neighborhoods. Across the country, DHS law enforcement is experiencing unprecedented violence against them, including a more than 1,300% increase in assaults, a 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks, and an 8,000% increase in death threats against them, as a direct consequence of the relentless, violent, and dehumanizing rhetoric from the media and sanctuary politicians. “On this Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, I want to take a moment to express how thankful I am every single day for the men and women who put on the badge and put their lives on the line to protect the American people. With more than 80,000 officers and agents, our Department is the largest law enforcement agency in the federal government. We recognize the sacrifice you and your families make to protect and serve the American people and our great country,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “President Trump and I will always stand with you. Please take some time today to thank an officer or agent today. Make them a meal, buy them a cup of coffee, or simply thank them. To every officer who puts on the badge each day: Thank you. Your service is paramount to our nation’s safety. ” DHS reaffirms that our law enforcement deserves honor, respect, and support for their service to our nation. Their commitment reflects the highest ideals of duty and sacrifice, and their bravery ensures Americans live in safer, more secure communities. Some of the “best of the best” stories of heroism, sacrifice, and service from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) officers in 2025 are below: ICE Dallas officer rescues driver of overturned truck. On April 26, ICE Dallas officers saw a pickup truck lose a tire, roll seven times, and land upside-down. Our officers and two bystanders worked quickly to pry open the truck’s door and pulled the driver to safety. An off-duty EMT stopped to help until police and paramedics arrived.  ICE Denver officers pull crash victim from burning car saving his life. ICE Denver’s Special Response Team — an elite unit of officers trained to respond to high-risk situations — were traveling to Illinois’ Broadview ICE processing facility on September 25 and approached the aftermath of a fiery, near-deadly collision between a semi-truck, a small passenger car and two other vehicles. As smoke billowed from the small car, the officers responded quickly and discovered a man with his legs pinned under the dashboard inside, unconscious and covered in blood. They broke the vehicle’s window and extracted the man moments before the entire vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. They provided first aid while waiting for emergency responders to arrive. EMTs transported the severely injured man to the hospital, while several ICE officers suffered from slight smoke inhalation and lacerations.  ICE Philadelphia officers respond to single-vehicle accident and rescue man. On July 11, two ICE officers encountered a single-vehicle accident where the driver veered off the road and struck a tree. The pair sprang into action, rescuing the driver and extinguishing an engine fire while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.  ICE officer administers lifesaving aid to wounded man. An off-duty ICE officer in Nuevo, California, provided lifesaving aid to a man who suffered a neck wound Oct. 2 while instructing his son to call 911. The officer, trained in first aid, ensured the scene was safe and assessed the man’s condition. He then used his own first-aid kit and applied a pressure bandage to control the heavy bleeding and stabilize the victim. First responders transported the man to the hospital for further treatment. ICE officer provides emergency medical care to man shot in Philadelphia. On Oct. 21, an ICE deportation officer was conducting enforcement actions when he heard multiple gunshots nearby. He saw three juveniles fleeing the area and sprang into action, discovering a man who’d been shot in the left thigh. He and officers from the Philadelphia Police Department applied a tourniquet, and local police drove the man to a nearby hospital for treatment. HSI special agent rescues stranded motorist moments before collision. On June 15 in Huntsville, Alabama, an HSI special agent rounded a blind curve on a bridge while driving to his home from after a training event. He saw a disabled sedan that had crashed and was positioned sideways in the path of oncoming traffic. He slammed on his brakes and pulled over to the shoulder, where two other vehicles had already crashed to avoid the sedan. A woman was trapped inside the van, and a small fire had ignited in the engine department. Using a window-breaking tool, the HSI agent smashed open the van’s window to help free the woman. Just then, two other vehicles sped around the blind curve. To avoid being mowed down, the agent had to grab the bridge railing, leap over to the other side, then hang there as the cars sped by. One of the speeding cars then struck the disabled van, causing the fire to grow. Putting his life in even greater danger, he rushed back to the van and pulled her from the burning vehicle, moving her to safety. He remained with her and rendered aid until local emergency responders took over the scene. Everyone involved in the accident survived with only minor injuries.  HSI Rio Grande Valley special agents rescue downed motorcyclist. On October 24, a group of HSI special agents and an ERO officer traveling along Highway 83 — the road between Brownsville, Texas, and San Benito, Mexico — witnessed a near-fatal motorcycle crash. A minivan sideswiped the bike, and, after the motorcycle and its rider fell, a box truck struck and injured the rider. The agents immediately rushed to the scene to provide medical aid. They stabilized the rider and kept witnesses on-site until local emergency responders arrived to transport the injured man to a nearby hospital for medical care.  HSI supervisory special agent detains hit-and-run driver. On Jan. 29, an HSI supervisory special agent helped detain a hit-and-run driver who tried to flee the scene after causing a multi-vehicle wrong-way hit-and-run crash in Washington, D.C. The special agent, who was on his way to work, encountered the chaos shortly after a man driving a pickup truck struck a bicyclist and slammed into several oncoming vehicles. He then tried to escape on foot. After learning from witnesses that a man escaping the scene was the driver, he chased down, subdued, and placed the suspect in handcuffs until local police took him into custody.  HSI Rapid Response Teams support flood rescue efforts. HSI Rapid Response Team members from Tampa, Atlanta, Dallas and Houston sprang into action July 5 to provide critical emergency support for rescue and recovery efforts after the previous day’s devastating floods in San Antonio. The special agents were on the ground within 10 hours, painstakingly working through five- to eight-mile sectors of difficult terrain along the Guadelupe River. They performed lifesaving rescues and wellness checks, coordinated evacuations, searched buildings and vehicles, and helped residents in need. Unfortunately, one team discovered a woman who had passed away. They banded together and helped local authorities recover her remains to reunite them with her family. HSI special agent helps save man in overturned semi-truck. On March 26, an off-duty HSI special agent was traveling westbound near Fort Hancock, Texas, when he discovered a semi-truck rolled over on the side of a highway. He immediately stopped and helped secure the accident scene, helping two highway patrol officers extricate the driver, who was missing his left arm. The agent helped contain the risk of fire from leaking diesel fuel and located and cleaned the driver’s detached limb. He then rendered first aid alongside his fellow law enforcement officers until emergency medical services arrived on the scene. If you or someone you know wants to work side-by-side with these heroes, visit join.ICE.gov and submit an application today. | | # # # | | | | | DHS Provides Update on U.S. Border Patrol in Portland Who Attempted to Arrest Tren de Aragua Gang Associate and Suspected Member | | 01/09/2026 | | | | | DHS Provides Update on U.S. Border Patrol in Portland Who Attempted to Arrest Tren de Aragua Gang Associate and Suspected Member DHS law enforcement is facing an unprecedented 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks PORTLAND, Ore. – Yesterday, two suspected Tren de Aragua gang associates—let loose on American streets by Joe Biden—weaponized their vehicle against Border Patrol in Portland. The agent took immediate action to defend himself and others, shooting them. After fleeing, the suspects drove nearly five miles to an apartment complex and called emergency medical services. They were transported to separate hospitals. Luis David Nino-Moncada sustained an injury to the arm while Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras was hit in the chest. Nino-Moncada is now in FBI custody. These individuals are not married. "Only one day after an ICE officer was almost ran over in Minneapolis, two vicious Tren de Aragua gang members—let loose on American streets by Joe Biden—weaponized their vehicle against Border Patrol in Portland," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "The agent took immediate action to defend himself and others, shooting them. Thankfully, no law enforcement was injured as these criminals fled. Our law enforcement officers are on the frontlines arresting terrorists, gang members, murderers, pedophiles, and rapists. They are facing a 1,300% increase in assaults against them, a 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks against them, and an 8,000% increase in death threats against them. The violence must end."  | Zambrano-Contreras is a criminal illegal alien from Venezuela and is associated with the Tren de Aragua gang. She illegally entered the U.S. in 2023 near El Paso, Texas, and was released into this country by the Biden administration. Since illegally entering, Contreras played an active role in a Tren de Aragua prostitution ring and was involved with a prior shooting in Portland in July. Nino-Moncada is a criminal illegal alien from Venezuela and suspected Tren de Aragua gang member. He illegally entered the U.S. in 2022 and was RELEASED into the country by the Biden administration. Since then, he was arrested for DUI and unauthorized use of a vehicle. He has a final order of removal. | | | | | | |